Sapphire
General Information about Sapphire (#304EA6)
The hex color #304EA6, also known as Sapphire, is a dark and saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 19.88% red, 30.98% green, and 65.1% blue. The corresponding CMYK values are 69.45% cyan, 52.32% magenta, 0% yellow, and 34.9% black. Sapphire blue has long been associated with royalty, wisdom, and spirituality, making it a popular choice for brands seeking to convey a sense of authority and sophistication. This color is often used in the technology, finance, and healthcare industries to create a sense of security and reliability.
The color #304EA6, a deep shade of sapphire blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Its luminance value is relatively low, which means it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. For text, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended against a white background, while large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) requires a ratio of 3:1. When using #304EA6 for text, a light-colored background is necessary to meet these standards. For interactive elements like buttons or links, ensure a clear visual distinction from the surrounding content, using sufficient contrast in both color and size. Testing with accessibility tools and involving users with disabilities in the design process can help identify and address potential accessibility issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #6688cc
A lighter blue that offers better contrast against dark backgrounds, making it more accessible for text and user interface elements.
- #779ecb
A softer, more muted blue that can be used as a background color or for decorative elements without overpowering the design.
- #4664b2
A brighter shade of blue that maintains a sense of sophistication while improving visibility and legibility in various applications.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #304EA6 can be used to create a sense of trust and reliability, making it suitable for websites in the finance, healthcare, or education sectors. As a primary color, it should be paired with lighter accents to ensure readability and visual balance. It can also be effectively used for buttons, navigation bars, and headings to draw attention to key elements.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, #304EA6 can be incorporated into clothing designs to evoke a sense of elegance and sophistication. It can be used as a solid color for dresses, suits, or evening wear, or paired with complementary colors like gold or silver for added visual interest. This color also translates well to accessories such as handbags, scarves, and jewelry.
Interior Design
In interior design, #304EA6 can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices, and can be paired with neutral colors like gray, white, or beige to create a balanced and harmonious space. It can also be used as an accent color in furniture, textiles, or wall art to add a pop of color to a room.